I came across this short article titled "Panel Makes Recommendations for North Carolina Offshore Wind Energy Development" and it described North Carolina's expansive coastline and abundant offshore wind resources in a way that made it seem resoundingly beneficial for economic development and job creation. However, as that may be the case, it is necessary to invite the suggestions of local community members to see what they think about the new developments, because they are the ones who are going to be affected the most on a daily basis.
Many cases such as these are familiar to environmental justice advocates as they stress the importances of listening to local members of the community. It doesn't hurt either to have a panel made up of scientific experts and environmental advocates who can educate the public as well. This is exactly what governor Purdue had in mind when he created his scientific advisory panel in 2009, which today is insisting on the continuation of offshore wind energy development in NC.
I believe that NC governor Bev Purdue and his panel are going about this the right way and should suffice as a good example of how to develop the right way. As he acknowledges the risks of development: "the development of any sources of offshore energy...will likely have some socioeconomic and environmental impact...and challenges related to infrastructure development" he strengthens his case for pursuing wind energy development by letting others know that this is something to keep an eye out for.
URL: http://www.nawindpower.com/naw/e107_plugins/content/content.php?content.9374
No comments:
Post a Comment